Bioprocess systems engineering approaches to improve rAAV production for gene therapy applications 

This project is focussed on improving upstream and downstream bioprocessing yields during the production of recombinant Adeno-associated viruses (rAAV). The objectives of the project are: (1) To develop a modular, ‘plug-and-play’ mathematical model of all upstream and downstream bioprocessing steps required for the production of rAAVs. (2) To use Process Systems Engineering methodologies to identify optimal routes to manufacture rAAVs that maximise productivity and reduce manufacturing costs. (3) To develop model-based tools for the assessment of uncertainty and risk that can predict the ‘real-life’ performance of rAAV manufacturing technologies, including ones developed through other GET-IN DC projects.

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A successful project will result in: (1) A digital mapping of both established and novel rAAV manufacturing technologies; (2) A model-based tool to identify bioprocessing conditions that maximise rAAV productivity; (3) A set of digital decisional tools to guide the selection of optimal up- and down-stream technologies for the robust and cost-efficient production of rAAVs.

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Enrolment in Doctoral School: Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH), Greece

Planned secondments:

• Siemens Process Systems Engineering, London UK (Months 9-11): Bioprocess modelling

• KU Leuven, Belgium (Months 18-19): Introduction to upstream bioprocessing

• KU Leuven, Belgium (Months 29-30): Introduction to downstream bioprocessing